Middlesbrough v Birmingham City - No goal celebrations for the Boro

Players have been asked not to hug each other after scoring with football governing bodies believing it is important for players to use their “influence in demonstrating the importance of following the rules.”

The EFL issued updated guidelines for clubs last month which included reducing the time spent training indoors, with players asked to change and shower at home.

A joint statement from the Football Association, Premier League and EFL insisted on Thursday: “Our three organisations have confidence in our Covid-19 protocols and our ability to bring the season to a successful conclusion.”

Elite sport has been allowed to continue through a third national lockdown and Warnock said: “We are very fortunate and honoured that the Government have agreed to this.

“We can’t take any chances to knock it back and I am hoping the lads realise that.

“I have emphasised it every day this week we have trained. I just hope they have taken it on board.”

Boro welcome Birmingham City to the Riverside today, aiming to make it five wins from their last six Championship games.

They won 4-1 when the sides met at St Andrews in November

“Their home record is very poor but away from home they have done really well,” said Warnock, with the Blues losing just twice on the road this term.

“They are very fine margins, these games. I expect it to be a very tough game given the preparations that we have had.

“They have got a large squad and some good players in that squad. There are no easy games in this league.”

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app and receive exclusive members-only offers. Click HERE to subscribe.